ARISTOTLE’S DEMOCRATIC POLIS: EXPLANATION OR WARNING?
ARISTOTLE’S DEMOCRATIC POLIS: EXPLANATION OR WARNING?
Author(s): Christopher VasillopulosSubject(s): Philosophy
Published by: Instytut Filozofii i Socjologii Polskiej Akademii Nauk
Keywords: Pericles; Aristotle; democracy; citizenship; friendship; happiness; rationality
Summary/Abstract: A democratic polis requires a citizenry that is capable of choice, that is, a decision informed by reason and facts. Tyranny requires obedient subjects. Democratic citizens normally pursue happiness, a life of virtuous activity, a way of living that requires fami-ly and friendship. Periclean Athens demonstrates the perils of democracy when the polis assumes the prerogatives of the family and friendship, substituting patriotism. The Funeral Oration illustrates how a seductive charismatic leader undermines Aristotelian conditions of ideal citizenship by subordinating the citizen to the polis.
Journal: Dialogue and Universalism
- Issue Year: 2015
- Issue No: 1
- Page Range: 203-210
- Page Count: 8
- Language: English